01 Aug In-the-News Update [Issue: Life]
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed a bill empowering the state attorney general to combat deceptive tactics used by pregnancy centers to divert women seeking abortion. The Deceptive Practices of Limited Services Pregnancy Centers Act prohibits crisis pregnancy centers from using deception or misinformation to obstruct abortion access. The attorney general can now investigate complaints, prosecute cases, and issue fines of up to $50,000.
Supporters claim the law protects women’s health by ensuring access to accurate information for making critical decisions. They argue that crisis pregnancy centers often use deceptive methods to dissuade women from getting abortions, a situation exacerbated after the Supreme Court returned abortion matters to states by overturning Roe v. Wade.
Critics raise concerns about the law’s ambiguity, fearing it could unfairly target pro-life pregnancy centers. The definition of “deception” or “misinformation” remains vague, leading to potential misuse by the government. Legal challenges, like the one by the Thomas More Society, assert the law infringes on free speech and targets pro-life centers.
Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton supports the law as a measure to combat misinformation and protect women’s right to accurate medical information. Illinois Right to Life views it as a political attack, arguing it violates free speech and targets pro-life centers. The situation remains contentious, with both sides standing firm in their positions.